A huge third term from the Roos got them within eight points at the final change of ends after they had been 31 behind at the half, but the Saints blew them away with six goals in the last.
Gun Saint Mark McQualter started the season with a bang, kicking five goals, while Harley Middleton was also quality with three goals.
Trent Osborne was their best player, with Will Robinson and Fraser Haintz also strong.
Des Morgan impressed for the Rovers as their best, while Allan Bond and Aaron Purcell kicked three goals each.
Final score, Berrigan 19.10 (124) to Deni Rovers 13.11 (89).
The new look seniors started the season in style and after a close first term, an eight goal second quarter really set the tone for the Saints.
The team looking more youthful than other years and now conatining five sets of brothers showed plenty of dash and skill which was a pleasure to watch.
Mark McQualter was on fire up forward but was well assisted by Angus Coldwell out of the middle with his razor sharp delivery.
Trent Osborne was massive down back while the young brigade in Josh McQualter, Robinson, Ben Fox and Haintz really shone with their dash and hardness around the ball.
The Dalgliesh brothers — Jake and Toby — linked up well, as did the Beams boys — Tom and Jake.
The Saints will have a tough test heading into round two when they host 2018 minor premier Waaia on Saturday.
The Berrigan reserves also got off to a great start winning by 11 points.
It was good to see the boys lift when the challenge was on and kick away against the breeze.
It’s great the seniors have a bit of depth at the moment as the average age dropped from 38 to 33 which is a bit of a novelty for the side.
Aaron Burley was the pick of the warriors with his inspiring run out of the back line and his ability to split the packs.
Steve Morgan took note of Burley and kicked a great running goal from the backline. Noel Baxter was again in everything and the run of Ian Congdon was impressive.
Zach Nugent showed plenty of strength and poise up forward, even spotted dishing off handballs without his guernsey on.
On a lighter note it was great to see the fit looking Heazlewood boys — Cody and Matt — join the Saints on the park once again.
Final score, Berrigan 5.8 (38) to Deni Rovers 4.3 (27).
The fourths were up and about and focused against a much bigger Deni Rovers side.
Top-age players Matthew Whelan and Nick Arnold had a great start to the season, both playing a very impressive game.
Archie Cameron was a valued player as was Liam Brown, Xavier Fox and Lachlan O’Dywer.
Final score, Deni Rovers 11.10 (76) to Berrigan 0.1 (1).
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